Swiss Hound
Swiss Hound (Schweizer Laufhund) is a medium-sized dog that comes in 4 variants:
- Bernese,
- Jura,
- Schwyz,
- Lucerne.
All four variants are incredibly similar, the main difference is their coat color. This dog is a scent hound that uses his nose to the job – follow a scent for great distances.
They are primarily hunting dogs, but Swiss Hounds can also be great family companions. They do best in active families who love to spend their days outside.
Height:
18-23 in (47-59 cm)
Weight:
18-33 lb (8-15 kg)
Origin:
Switzerland
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Dog Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Swiss Hounds have a short, dense, and smooth coat that requires weekly brushing.
Swiss Hound coat color:
1. Bernese Hound:
- White with black patches or black saddle
2. Jura Hound:
- Tan with black blanket, sometimes with black overlay or black with tan markings over eyes
3. Lucerne Hound:
- Blue – a combination of black and white hair, with black patches or black saddle
4. Schwyz Hound:
- White with orange patches or orange saddle
Since these dogs have droopy ears, you should be careful and check them regularly. They are prone to developing ear infections, and because of that, weekly check their ears for any signs of infections – bad odor, redness, wax build-up, etc.
With these dogs, the rest is basic care. Trim their nails if the dog doesn’t wear them out naturally, bathe them a few times a year, and brush their teeth so they secure fresh breath and healthy gums.
Exercise
Swiss Hound is an active breed that requires a lot of activities to be happy. They were bred for working purposes, and because of that, they are not the best fit for apartment living. They need a lot of space to wander around and spend their energy. It is not uncommon for these dogs to work for hours without taking a break, and because of that fact, if you want to have a happy dog, you will have to meet their needs.
Socialization
Like all other dogs, even Swiss Hound requires proper and early socialization to trust your dog. With correct socialization, your dog will learn how it’s supposed to behave in many different situations he may find himself in. The socialization process starts as soon as you bring your Swiss Hound puppy home. Expose him to many different situations, people, dogs, and sounds.
They can learn to react accordingly and understand that they don’t need to be scared of strangers and other dogs. They can adapt to any environment if you secure them with plenty of physical and mental activity.
Swiss Hound and kids
Swiss Hounds are an excellent choice for families with kids, and they will be great playing partners for them. Take note that no matter how good your dog is, you should never leave him alone with kids so any unwanted behavior wouldn't emerge.
Before you let them play, you should also teach your kids what is the correct way to approach, interact and play with the dog. That way, you can be sure that your kids will respect the dog.
Swiss Hound and other animals
Swiss Hound gets along with other dogs and enjoys their company. With proper socialization, you don't have to worry that your dog will become aggressive or wouldn't get along with other dogs. Since this is a hunting dog, in some cases, Swiss Hound can start chasing smaller animals.
Health
Every dog can develop some health problems, and Swiss Hound also can suffer from some conditions. To be sure that you will end up with the dog with the best possible health, always buy Swiss Hound from a responsible dog breeder. Responsible breeders will regularly check their breeding dogs to ensure that their puppies will be without inherited diseases.
Swiss Hound can suffer from the following:
- Ear infections
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Progressive retinal atrophy
Swiss Hound breeders
Swiss Hound is not a very popular dog across the world, so you must be patient if you want to get this dog. When trying to find Swiss Hound breeders take your time and explore all your options. We advise you only to search and contact official and responsible dog breeders because if you do so you can be sure that your future puppy will have the best possible start in life - good and responsible breeders take good care of their dogs and provide them with everything they need.
World Dog Finder team
Updated at31.08.2023.
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